FATIGUE AND COLLISION AVOIDANCE
directly to the Pitram server without the need for manual input. This avoids incorrect figures being entered, therefore providing the control room with a more accurate representation of current equipment allocation.”
An underground operation utilises proximity detection warnings that alert equipment operators and the control room when a potential collision is likely to occur. Pitram warnings assist in the prevention of such instances, warning operators ahead of time to ensure the safety of workers is maintained.
Pitram’ s collision avoidance capability is furthered by the machine guidance module.“ The module has been designed to improve the productivity, utilisation and accuracy of machines by utilising high precision software to provide accurate measurements and reduce the need for rework.” MICROMINE partnered with North American company, Carlson Software, to further enhance tracking of the mining operation through the use of high precision capabilities. The benefit of high precision software is that the control room has accurate, real-time GPS precise locations of equipment.
“ The addition of high precision GPS to a mine site increases safety standards by reducing the possibility of a mine collision through real-time data. The alarm system tracks and alerts the equipment operator, if necessary, when a machine breaches the exclusion radius, or if the machine leaves a safe work boundary. The GPS locations in Pitram have the additional benefit of assisting with maintaining a safe working environment by providing warnings to operators in regards to machine speed, proximity to a dangerous situation or if materials are dumped in the wrong location.”
MICROMINE states that implementing a mine collision avoidance system like Pitram assists in raising the standard of safety on site and helping to prevent injury or death due to vehicle interaction.“ Solutions that identify the likelihood of risk and assist with mitigation before they pose a problem are invaluable to mining operations. Implemented correctly, these solutions have the capability to greatly reduce the chance of an accident while maintaining operational capability and productivity.”
SmartCap Life users can monitor fatigue levels anywhere, anytime via Bluetooth. The LifeBand connects to the Life App, which allows users to have their personal fatigue data at their fingertips, so they can be their own fatigue manager
SmartCap says that what sets Life apart from the previous product offering is the focus on the end user, with a strong focus on creating a community of users. SmartCap Technologies CEO, Dush Wimal states:“ SmartCap has already taken a market leading position in the mining market over the last 12 months. With the launch of Life we will be able to help more people manage their fatigue and alertness anywhere, anytime. Life is the world’ s most effective fatigue monitoring solution that provides real-time feedback. Our early warning alarms, combined with real-time monitoring, enable proactive intervention to better manage fatigue risk.”
Users can monitor fatigue levels via Bluetooth. The Life system consists of the LifeBand, which connects to the Life App, available from the Apple Store and Google Play. The band has a long-life battery that lasts seven times longer compared to the previous model. No calibration is required and unlike other fatigue monitoring products, the LifeBand doesn’ t require set up before every use so mining users can get on their way quicker. It is also one complete unit so parts can never go
missing, and the replaceable sensor components mean users can self-service their own device with ease. The LifeZone feature of the App allows users to have their personal fatigue data at their fingertips, so they can be their own fatigue manager. Having the access to regular reports reinforces personal responsibility. Like the predecessor SmartCap products, Life“ utilises the gold standard in sleep science – EEG [ electroencephalogram ] technology. You and your family can experience peace of mind knowing that Life measures, not guesses your fatigue level so you can get home safe, every day.” Mining users can choose the headwear that suits them, whether a hardhat or cap or other to attach the LifeBand. Life utilises state of the art brainwave technology to determine alertness, to eliminate microsleeps with accurate fatigue measurements. They can then download the App for Bluetooth connectivity and to allow progress tracking to support wellness initiatives. A fatigue level‘ speedometer’ view provides real time alerts to prevent microsleeps before they happen. The screen also adjusts for night and day time settings and alerts you when the cap is fitted incorrectly. It also protects user privacy by making the recorded data personal, while also being available in different languages.
Combining collision avoidance and drowsiness detection
Optalert, one of the leading drowsiness detection providers, recently agreed with GE Mining, the global mining solutions provider, to work together on the integration of Optalert’ s earlywarning drowsiness detection technology with GE Mining’ s Collision Avoidance System.
Collision Avoidance Systems( CAS) protect miners above and underground by providing 360˚ proximity protection for vehicles, equipment and
SmartCap introduces“ Life”
SmartCap Technologies, a leader in driver fatigue monitoring, has introduced‘ Life by SmartCap’. The new product Life was launched at MINExpo 2016 in Las Vegas. The company states:“ SmartCap has always focused on producing unique alertness wearables that are comfortable, accurate and protect the user’ s privacy. With the new product taking SmartCap to the next level, customers are expected to experience even more satisfaction with the new design features.”
Optalert ' s products continuously provide real-time objective, scientifically-validated alertness information to both drivers( in cab) and supervisors
62 International Mining | JANUARY 2017